The NBA has launched an investigation into Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant after he appeared to mimic shooting a gun with his hands during a heated moment late in Tuesday night’s game against the Golden State Warriors.
The incident occurred during a timeout with just 20.1 seconds left in the Warriors’ 134-125 victory over the Grizzlies. As Morant made his way toward the Grizzlies bench, he pointed finger guns—shaped with both hands—toward the Warriors bench, extending his left arm in the process. Referees immediately assessed double technical fouls to both Morant and Warriors guard Buddy Hield, who reportedly made a gesture prior to Morant’s action.
The league is expected to interview all involved parties as early as Wednesday, according to the sources.
Morant, 25, has a troubling history involving firearms. The two-time All-Star was suspended twice in 2023 for incidents involving guns shown on social media. In March 2023, Morant was suspended for eight games after displaying a firearm during an Instagram live session while partying at a Denver-area nightclub. Just two months later, he was suspended for the first 25 games of the 2023-24 season after flashing another gun on a live stream hosted by a friend.
This latest gesture comes at a tense time for both Morant and the Grizzlies. The team, once a strong contender in the Western Conference, has now dropped seven of its last eight games and currently sits in sixth place with a 44-32 record. Adding to the turbulence, Memphis dismissed head coach Taylor Jenkins last Friday, intensifying scrutiny around the franchise’s stability.
The NBA has yet to issue an official statement, but the investigation raises questions about Morant’s judgment and ongoing disciplinary concerns. While no actual weapon was involved this time, the gesture may still be viewed as violating the league’s code of conduct—especially considering Morant’s previous suspensions for similar behavior.
As the playoffs approach and the Grizzlies fight to retain their postseason position, the outcome of the league’s probe could have significant consequences for Morant and the team’s momentum.
